Ford Motor CompanyDispute with Transportation Secretary over Chinese partnerships could affect government relations and approvals.
Ford has fired back at the Trump administration after Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed profound concern over the automaker's use of Chinese partners, calling the letter wrong-headed. The dispute centers on Ford's Michigan battery plant, which will license battery technology from Chinese company CATL, as well as a joint venture in Spain with Geely and the delayed return of Lincoln Nautilus production to the U.S. Ford's head of communications, Mark Truby, called the letter a head-scratcher, noting that the plant will be staffed by Ford employees and that the company is simply licensing technology. The exchange is surprising given the previously friendly relationship between CEO Jim Farley and President Trump, and analysts suggest it may be political theater unless it escalates into a broader conflict affecting government contracts and approvals.
Ford Motor CompanyDispute with Transportation Secretary over Chinese partnerships could affect government relations and approvals.
Geely Automobile Holdings LtdGeely's joint venture with Ford in Spain is mentioned as part of the dispute, but impact unclear.
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Ltd Class ACATL's technology licensing to Ford is criticized, but no direct impact stated.